Maria Alaia
Occupational Therapist | Port Coquitlam
Areas of Expertise: Hand Therapy, Hand/Wrist Injuries, Neurological Conditions, Adaptive Equipment, Home Safety, Wheelchair Assessment, Brain Injury, Stroke Rehabilitation, Adjustment to Physical Illness/Injuries/Disabilities, Orthopedic Injuries
My path to occupational therapy began through my own lived experience, which introduced me to the world of healthcare. It taught me that small changes can make a huge difference in one’s day-to-day life, and has deepened my appreciation for providing care with empathy and collaboration. This includes meeting clients where they’re at and working together towards what is meaningful and practical in their everyday lives. I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, respected, and comfortable bringing their whole selves into the process. I approach my practice with a creative spirit, curiosity, and commitment to being a lifelong learner. To me, occupational therapy is about connecting with people and helping make everyday life a little more possible.
In my free time, you’ll often find me writing fiction, skiing or boxing, trying new foods and recipes, or fiddling on a new art project.
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Education:
Master of Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia (2026)
Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Systems (Brain & Cognition Stream), University of British Columbia (2023)
Associations:
Occupational Therapy of BC (OTBC) Association (2026-Current)
Member of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (2024-Current)
Courses:
MoCA Cognitive Assessment Certified (2025)
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Certification (2025)
TransCare BC Gender Affirming Relational Practice Certificate (2025)
BC CATT for Concussion Certificate (2025)
CPR & First Aid Certified (2024)
Institute for Healthcare Improvement: Basic Certificate in Quality and Safety 2020
Our Occupational Therapy Team
Occupational Therapist at Port Coquitlam
Occupational Therapist at Cordova Bay
Occupational Therapist at Port Coquitlam
Occupational Therapist at Cordova Bay
Occupational Therapist and Registered Clinical Counsellor at Cordova Bay
Occupational Therapist at Cordova Bay
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